Benefits of honey in pregnancy

It’s a great food for mankind, during pregnancy. Honey consumption has to be of all ages. But so sweet? Or good? Childcare, we investigated them all for you.

Is Honey Safe To Eat During Pregnancy?

Honey is safe during pregnancy provided it is pasteurized. Also, it should come from a government certified authority.

One cause of concern about raw honey is that it can cause botulism. However, it only affects babies less than a year old as their digestive system is immature. The gastrointestinal system in adults contains bacteria that prevents botulinum toxin, and does not let it move to the placenta

Honey benefits in several ways during pregnancy as it is rich in sugars such as fructose and glucose, besides the nutrients.

Relieves cold and cough: The antiviral properties of honey inhibit the viral activity in the body preventing cold. Honey is an effective cough suppressant. However, there is no scientific evidence for or against its use to fight cough

Eases a sore throat: The anti-inflammatory properties of honey soothe throat irritation. Add honey to ginger or lemon tea, and sip it warm to relieve a sore throat

Improves scalp health: The antibacterial nature of honey doesn’t just sooth a sore throat, but works effectively at getting rid of dandruff and itchy scalp.Dilute some honey in warm water and apply to the scalp to treat such hair conditions

Reduces allergies: Though not thoroughly conclusive, honey helps in controlling seasonal allergies as local honey has pollens in it. On regular consumption, it immunes the body towards pollen and seasonal allergies

Dangers Of Honey During Pregnancy:

Excessive consumption of honey can lead to certain side effects as below.

Aggravates insulin sensitivity: Honey raises the blood sugar levels and worsens the insulin resistance as more than 25 grams of fructose a day is unsafe during pregnancy.

Affects dental health: The high levels of sugar in honey cause dental cavities and tooth erosion.

Weight gain: The rich calories present in honey add to your weight.

How Much Honey Is Safe During Pregnancy?

Three to five tablespoons (180 to 200 calories) of honey a day is safe as one tablespoon contains approximately 60 calories. Calories from simple sugars should not exceed more than 10% of the total calorie requirement during pregnancy (which is around 1800 to 2400 calories per day)

Precautions To Take While Eating Honey:

There are some ways in which honey should not be taken:

Do not add honey in hot water or beverages as it eliminates its healthy enzymes. You may add it to lukewarm water.

Do not add honey in foods rich in vitamins C and D as the minerals present in honey will nullify the benefits of the vitamins.

Avoid mixing honey to bean curd as it can reverse the benefits and lead to indigestion

Tips For Choosing Honey:

If the quality of honey is good, consumption should not be an issue, even to pregnant women.

Double check if the honey is pasteurized and almost all brands sell pasteurized honey.

Choose trusted, organic honey as it undergoes minimal processing.

If you are unsure of which honey to eat, discuss with your health practitioner. She can be the best person to advise you.